Walking for a Cause in D.C.

Participants in the 2009 Alzheimers Walk cross the finish line

By Elisabeth Grant

Last Saturday, October 17th was cold, rainy, and all around miserable. It was the kind of weather that makes you want to hit the snooze button, curl up in bed, and nix any plans of leaving the house. But the gloomy sky and constant precipitation was no match for the dedication of the walkers at the 2009 Alzheimer’s Memory Walk. Walkers donned layers of tee-shirts, fleeces, ponchos, and rain gear and trudged on down to the National Mall to show their support and commitment to fighting Alzheimer’s disease.

Spirits were reasonably high, elevated by a cover band (playing hits of the 80s and 90s); mimes, jugglers, and men on stilts (looking a little more ridiculous in their raincoats); and lots of snacks (coffee and donuts make everything a little better). Participants had the choice of completing a 1 mile walk or a 3 mile walk, both courses keeping close to the National Mall. So far the walk has raised over $470,000 and fundraising will continue until November 15, 2009.

D.C. is a popular location to hold walks for causes. Perhaps it’s the inspiring backdrop of the nation’s capital, or the spirit of activism from the organizations within the city, or maybe it’s just that there aren’t that many hills around here. Whichever reason (or combination of reasons), it is, you’re bound to find a cause to get you out on your feet. Read on for more walking events.

Past Walks

• AIDS Walk Washington (October 3, 2009)
  Held the first weekend of this month, participants in the 5K AIDS Walk Washington raised nearly $850,000 for HIV/AIDS programs of Whitman-Walker Clinic. The walk (which could also be done as a timed run) began and ended at Freedom Plaza.

Upcoming Walks

• Walk Now for Autism Speaks (October 31, 2009)
  Before you toss on your sexy witch costume or Kate Gosselin wig for a night of Halloween fun, perhaps spend your afternoon on the National Mall walking in the 2.5 mile Walk Now for Austim event (almost $500,000 in donations have already been collected). Registration begins at 8:30 am, followed by a resources fair, speakers, and group photo. Walkers make their way out at 10:00 am, finishing up before 11:45 for the closing ceremonies.

• Heart Walk (November 4, 2009)
  The Greater Washington Heart Walk is close to halfway in its efforts to raise $2 million to fight heart disease and stroke. From 8:30 to 11 am partake in “informational tents, health screenings, refreshments and entertainment.” The 2.9 mile walk (or 1 mile short course) begins at 10 am.

• Avon Walk for Breast Cancer (May 1-2, 2010)
  Support the fight against breast cancer (and enjoy an opportunity to wear copious amounts of pink) at the 2010 Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in DC. Those interested in this challenging walk (26.2 miles on Saturday and 13.1 miles on Sunday) should start training now and may be interested in the training guides Avon offers online.

• Arthritis Walk (May 15, 2010)
  Join the Arthritis Foundation in raising money for the fight against arthritis. Since this event is still many months away details are scarce. So check back at the Arthritis Walk website as the date draws nearer.